Pope to be discharged from hospital following lung cancer surgery

Pope Francis is expected to return to the Vatican on Saturday following his hospitalisation for cancer treatment. The 86-year-old underwent surgery at Gemelli Hospital in northern Rome, where physicians conducted a partial removal of his right lung to extract the malignant growth.

The pontiff was admitted to the facility on Tuesday and has since undergone the procedure as part of his medical management. His discharge comes after medical staff determined his condition had stabilised sufficiently for him to continue his recovery at the papal residence.

The surgery represents a significant health intervention for the aging pontiff, who leads the world's 1.3 billion Roman Catholics. His hospitalisation had prompted widespread concern among the faithful and in diplomatic circles regarding his ability to fulfil his duties.

The Vatican has indicated that Francis's return to the Vatican will allow him to resume his pastoral responsibilities, though the extent and timeline of his public engagements remain under review. The Pope's medical team will continue to monitor his condition closely during the recovery period.